Tea is a rich natural source of antioxidants. It also contains caffeine which can activate the stress response. In moderation this is beneficial; it makes us more alert, provides us with energy and improves our performance. Too much caffeine simply over activates our stress response. So watch your caffeine intake and restrict it to about 1000mg a day. Roughly speaking a cup of freshly brewed coffee contains about 200mg, black tea about 75 mg, green tea less than 10mg, colas 50mg, cocoa 75 mg and chocolate 20mg. Furthermore, caffeine from coffee is absorbed rapidly into the body whereas caffeine from tea is absorbed relatively slowly over a longer period, thus prolonging its effects; one reason why tea is more refreshing and revitalising. Green tea provides just the right amount of caffeine to aid concentration during prolonged periods of demanding work.

at home
· start the day with a reviving refreshing cup of tea or
coffee
· eat a hearty, nutritious and sustaining breakfast
· design a family ‘fun’ colour code for healthy eating:
red dots for least consumption, yellow for occasional
and green for unlimited consumption

on the move
· eat fruit and nuts instead of chocolate bars when
you’re hungry
· take speciality, green or herbal tea bags with you
and ask for hot water
· review downloaded Internet sites on nutrition
from your laptop during commuting